Mumbai: The first phase of Versova-Andheri- Ghatkopar Metro Rail service is likely to commence by September this year and the entire phase will be operational by the year end, Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan said here on Wednesday.

"We will start full passenger service by September and the entire stretch (11.4 kilometres Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar corridor) by December," Chavan said after flagging off the first safety trial run of the Mumbai Metro here.

Chavan said the process of obtaining all mandatory safety certifications are underway, adding that the service will be functional once these certifications are received.

He also said that the work on Navi Mumbai Metro project has also begun, adding that the project worth Rs 5,500 crore will be thrown open to the public this year.

The first phase, Versova to Saki Naka, will have seven stations.

The Mumbai Metro transit system under construction is designed to reduce traffic congestion in the city.

The first phase of the Mumbai Metro project is being constructed by Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and Reliance Infrastructure under public-private participation mode.